The State Government has allocated additional funding of $741,000 to the Western Australian Police Force, for the purchase of specialised child interview recording equipment.
The money will fund the purchase and installation of specialist audio-visual equipment at three metropolitan sites, along with the roll out of portable units to regional Western Australia.
The equipment is a vital tool in child sex abuse investigations, as it spares victims from the trauma of having to give evidence in a crowded court room.
The investment recognises the importance of ensuring the technical quality of video recorded interviews are to the highest possible standard.
The funding will also allow the WA Police Force to digitise historic criminal records to improve CrimTrac searches.
The purchase of portable equipment will allow interviews to be conducted at locations such as schools, hospitals or in regional communities when required.
Installation of the new equipment will occur over the coming weeks.
As stated by Police Minister Michelle Roberts:
“Child sexual abuse is one of the most depraved crimes imaginable.
“But unfortunately our specialist detectives at the Child Abuse Squad deal with these highly traumatising cases day in and day out.
“We want to ensure they are well supported and resourced to enable them to do their job both properly and compassionately.
“The McGowan Government is serious about giving our police the tools they need to support victims and bring perpetrators to justice.
